Member

I completely understand the desire for transparency, and that is what the register is for, but I do not think the sort of specific labelling inherent in the noble Baroness’s amendment would be valid or achievable with any degree of accuracy or certainty. Even with modern scientific techniques, it is almost impossible to distinguish between a gene-edited variety and a traditionally bred variety. Therefore, I do not believe it is necessary. I support the view taken by other countries. For example, Canada, the US and Japan do not require labelling for precision-bred products. Having said all that, I strongly support the statutory instrument.